Year 7 Students Represent EDSC at the 2026 Chinese Reading Awards
The Chinese Faculty is proud to congratulate Aanya – 7L and Dinalie – 7Q for representing East Doncaster Secondary College at the 2026 Chinese Language Teachers’ Association of Victoria (CLTAV) Year 7 Reading Awards, held on 10 August at the University of Melbourne.
This annual competition brings together Year 7 non-background learners of Chinese from across Victoria. This year, more than 70 students from over 30 Victorian schools participated, making it a highly competitive and rewarding experience for all involved. Students were required to read an unseen passage titled 我的家 (My Family) after just ten minutes of preparation, demonstrating their Chinese language skills in front of judges and an audience. Participants were assessed on pronunciation, tonal accuracy, fluency, phrasing and overall delivery.
Preparing for the Reading Awards required significant dedication, courage and persistence. Aanya and Dinalie spent time developing their reading accuracy, pronunciation and confidence, and both approached the challenge with enthusiasm and determination. Their willingness to step outside their comfort zones and represent EDSC reflects the positive learning attitude and commitment to excellence that we value in our Chinese program.
We are especially delighted to share that Aanya received an encouragement award, recognising her outstanding performance in the competition. In addition, all participants were awarded certificates of participation, acknowledging their hard work and achievement in reaching this stage of the competition.
The Chinese Faculty warmly congratulates both students on their efforts and achievements. We are proud of the way they represented our school and showcased the strengths of our Chinese language program. Their participation has brought honour to our school community, and we look forward to seeing them continue to grow as confident and capable learners of Chinese.
Astrid Tao – Chinese Teacher
Student Reflections
On 10th of August, I participated in the 2026 CLTAV Chinese reading competition for non-background students. It was held at Melbourne University, Sidney Myer Asia Centre. More than seventy students took part in the competition that night. Each of us got an unseen passage titled 我的家 (my family). We were given 10 minutes to prepare before we headed to the stage. I was nervous, because I was up first, but when I started to speak, I felt more confident. After everyone finished reading their passages, the judges announced the results. I was excited to hear my name being announced as I got an encouragement award. Overall, it was an incredible experience, and I loved it! It helped me boost my public speaking skills as well as my confidence. Most of all I experienced new cultures.
Aanya – 7L
On August 10th, I had the opportunity to participate in the Chinese Reading Awards at the University of Melbourne. When I arrived at the University of Melbourne, I waited for a little while until the organisers arrived. We were then invited into the hall, and the event began with a welcoming presentation.
During the presentation, all the competitors were asked to wait outside the hall and get ready for our reading. When it was my turn to read, I felt nervous and excited at the same time. However, once I started reading, I felt much better and was happy that I had the chance to participate.
After everyone had finished reading, it was time for the awards. My partner received an award, but I didn’t. Although I was a little disappointed, I was still happy because I had participated and tried my best. Overall, it was a great experience. I enjoyed being part of the Chinese Reading Awards, and I am glad that I had the opportunity to challenge myself and represent my school.
Dinalie – 7Q